SwitchPod is a new aluminum tripod designed primarily for quick switching between vlogging handheld mode and standard tripod mode. It features a lightweight and compact design for traveling with a small kit while at the same time being very sturdy. Its Kickstarter campaign has been very successful so far and there is still time left until the end of March, to pledge and get one.
Pat Flynn and Caleb Wojcik are two filmmakers based in San Diego, USA. They designed the SwitchPod within 14 months, after having the idea for such a product in late 2017. In the end of January 2019, they have finally launched the Kickstarter campaign for the SwitchPod with a goal of US$ 100,000. Their goal was reached within 12 hours. This again shows how popular vlogging is, nowadays. They also did a smart move in terms of marketing by giving their product to popular YouTube vloggers. A couple of them made a video about it and that definitely helped to get a lot of attention.
Popular YouTube vloggers tested out the SwitchPod. Source: SwitchPod
SwitchPod – Replacing GorillaPod in Vloggers Kits?
Currently lots of vloggers use a GorillaPod, as it can also be (kind of) modified to stand as a tripod and function as a vlogging handle, too.The SwitchPod should function a lot better for both needs, as popular vloggers have stated. It is sturdier, more compact, and more comfortable to hold.
The aluminum legs are designed to be held, as they have an ergonomic grip-like shape. There is also a small piece of rubber on each leg to prevent them from sliding, when used in tripod mode. On the top, there is a standard 1/4-20″ tripod screw and a tightening knob, which can be used to directly attach a camera, a flat base tripod head or just a quick release plate.
Various heads or quick release plates can be used. Source: SwitchPod
There are magnets on the legs to help keep them collapsed while in vlogging mode, which are gentle enough, so that switching to tripod mode can be done with a flick of the wrist.
The design is very compact: when the tripod is collapsed in vlogging mode, it is only 0.75″ (19mm) thick and can therefore be slid into basically any backpack pocket. Thanks to the cutouts in the legs, it can also be clipped onto a carabiner, for instance. The overall weight of the SwitchPod is only 11.1 oz (315 g), which is an important factor for a device meant to be held in a (possibly stretched) hand for some time.
Thickness of the SwitchPod in comparison. Source: SwitchPod
The SwitchPod is designed to be very sturdy. The creators demonstrated that the tripod can even hold a (centered) payload of 100 pounds. An attached tripod head would of course limit that, but it is nice to see the legs being a solid base. On the legs of the tripod, there are two additional ¼-20″ threads so that you can add accessories, like a mic, a monitor, or an LED light.
Additional accessories can be mounted on the legs. Source: SwitchPod
SwitchPod Key Specs
Weight: 11.1 oz (315 grams)
Material: aluminum (alloy)
Length in collapsed handle mode: 11″ (279mm)
Size of handle: 1.5″ (38mm) deep by 0.75″ (19mm) wide
Size in tripod mode: 9.75″ (248mm) tall by 9.75″ (248mm) wide
Color: black
Two ¼-20 threads for accessories
Circle pad to protect base of camera
Patent pending
When it comes to pricing – the early bird price of US$ 69 is gone already, so it is now possible to pledge US$ 79 to qualify for one SwitchPod or US$ 149 to qualify for two SwitchPods. A link to the campaign is here. The estimated delivery is August or September 2019. The creators claim to have a finalized design and fixed supply chain, so the product should arrive on time. Nevertheless, this is still crowdfunding and there are certain risks. Keep that in mind, when sending the money.
What do you think about the SwitchPod? If you vlog, what do you use to hold the camera? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.

As announced in September 2018, SIGMA is expanding its portfolio of full-frame T1.5 cinema prime lenses. While both, the 40mm and 105mm lenses already came out during the end of last year, soon it is time for SIGMA’s 28mm T1.5 lens to become available. It will be shipping in mid-March 2019, at $3,499.00 for the regular version and $4,499.00 for the fully luminous (FL) version.
SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cinema Lens
The SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cine is a fast and sharp T1.5 wide-angle lens, compatible with full-frame camera sensors and optimized for ultra-high-resolution of 8K image acquisition. The lens features a 180° focus rotation and is available in EF, E and PL mount with a lens support foot and cap included.
Lens Construction – SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cine. Source: SIGMA
An individual inspection of every single lens occurs with a A1 proprietary Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measuring system, using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Even previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of their quality control inspections.
MTF Charts – SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cine. Source: SIGMA
This new lens is available in PL, EF or E-mount. Additionally, the Mount Conversion Service allows users to convert their SIGMA PL mount lenses to and from Canon EF and Sony E-mounts (paid service).
Computer-based ray tracing has been used from the design stage onward to minimize flare and ghosting and enhance contrast in backlit conditions. Ghosting has also been checked at every prototype stage, with its causes identified, assessed and eliminated. Color balance is standardized across the line for easier color correction.
Distortion and Vignetting – SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cine. Source: SIGMA
The new SIGMA Cine lenses feature a 100% metal, dust-proof and splash-proof construction, with each ring and mount sealed to prevent water and dust from entering. Luminous paint enhances the visibility of all the information on the lens body, while laser engraving enhances durability.
SIGMA 28mm T1.5 FF Cine – Key Specs
focal length: 28mm
aperture: T1.5 to T16
number of diaphragm blades: 9 (rounded diaphragm)
close focus (measured from the image plane): 0.30m (1′)
image coverage: FF Φ43.3
front diameter: 95mm
filter size: 82mm
length (front to flange): 107.7mm (EF mount), 133.7mm (E-mount), 99.7mm (PL mount)
weight (without lens support foot): 1300g/45.85oz (EF mount), 1360g/47.97oz (E-mount), 1210g/42.68oz (PL mount)
horizontal angle of view for a full-frame camera aperture (aspect ratio 1:1.5, dimensions 36 mm × 24 mm / 1.42″ × 0.94″): 65.5°
horizontal angle of view for a super 35 digital cinema camera aperture (aspect ratio 1:1.8, dimensions 24.6 mm x 13.8 mm / 0.97″ × 0.54″): 47.4°
horizontal angle of view for an APS-C camera aperture (aspect ratio 1:1.5,dimensions 23.7 mm × 15.7 mm / 0.93″ × 0.62″): 45.9°
SIGMA’s 28mm T1.5 FF will be available in mid-March 2019 for $3,499.00 for the regular version and $4,499.00 for the fully luminous (FL) version. The lens is available both with feet markings and metric markings. In addition, SIGMA is now offering a five-piece case that can hold the 14mm, 28mm, 40mm, 105mm and 135mm Cine lenses for safe transportation of the gear. This new case will be available for purchase in mid-March too, for $750.00.
Have you worked with SIGMA cinema primes? What do you think of the optical quality? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.

Panasonic releases two new LUMIX consumer cameras – the LUMIX FZ1000 II and the LUMIX TZ95. The FZ1000 II is a 1-inch sensor bridge camera with a 16x telephoto zoom lens and a flip-out touchscreen. The LUMIX TZ95 is a new compact travel zoom camera with a very small body, 1/2.3-inch sensor, 30x zoom telephoto lens and a tilting LCD. Both cameras record 4K UHD video at up to 30fps. Ready for pre-order now.
Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II
The first generation FZ1000 was introduced already five years ago. Now the time has come to release its successor – the FZ1000 II. It is a bridge camera, meaning it has a rather bulky form with an ergonomic grip and a built-in long range lens. In other words – it is a fixed lens ultrazoom camera that looks like a DSLR.
The camera incorporates a 1-inch 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor with 5-axis Hybrid O.I.S.+ (optical image stabilizer). The sensor should have improved lowlight capabilities, thanks to its high signal-to-noise ratio. Video recording is possible in 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution at 30/25/24p. In the official press release, there was no information about 1080p modes, codec or bitrate. There is a 4K photo function, which can help users choose the best photo (frame) from a 30fps burst. Other 4K photo functions include Post Focus, Focus Stacking and the ability to combine multiple images for a “stromotion” effect.
The 16x optical LEICA zoom lens has a focal length of 25-400mm (35mm camera equivalent) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4.0 (minimum aperture is f/11). Panasonic also included a new Zoom Compose Assist feature, which assures that users do not lose the subject when it suddenly leaves the frame. We are yet to see how this works.
There are various photo styles, including the newly added “L.Monochrome D mode” for enhanced monochrome images. Also featured: Bluetooth low energy (4.2) and Wi-Fi connectivity (IEEE802.11b/g/n) for instant sharing via the Panasonic Image App. The battery can be charged with AC- or USB connection.
The LUMIX FZ1000 II has been equipped with a quick start-up time and an ultrafast autofocus of approximately 0.09 seconds. A burst rate of 12fps (AFS), plus a high-speed (electronic) shutter sporting 1/16000 seconds round off the package. The ergonomics of the FZ1000 II include a 0.39-inch OLED live viewfinder, which has a 2,360k-dot resolution and 0.74x magnification. The eyepoint of 20mm allows for high visibility – even for users wearing glasses. There is a 3.0″, 1,250k-dot flip-out touchscreen, which can rotate 180° to the side and 270° up and down. To help with ergonomics, there is a total of 13 customizable function buttons.
When comparing the specs to the first generation FZ1000, I don’t actually see too much of an improvement. The rear LCD screen has a slightly better resolution now. There are some smarter features and new photo styles. Other aspects of the camera seem to have stayed the same (judging solely from the available specs).
Panasonic LUMIX TZ95 (TZ96/DCZS80)
The second camera announced is a compact travel zoom – the Panasonic LUMIX TZ95 (in some parts of the world it will be sold as TZ96/DCZS80 – I will refer to it as TZ95 in this article). It sports a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixel resolution. The camera will be able to perform burst rates of 10 photos per second (AFS) and track a subject at a rate of 5 fps (AFC). For photographers, it supports RAW format shooting. Just like with the LUMIX TZ1000 II, video recording is possible in up to 4K UHD (3840×2160) resolution at up to 30p.
Regarding optics, the LUMIX TZ95 utilises a LEICA 30x zoom lens with a focal length of a whopping 24-720mm (35mm camera equivalent) and maximum aperture of f/3.3-6.4, which is nice for the huge zoom range. The lens features a Power O.I.S (optical image stabilizer), which is absolutely necessary to get useful images at the longer focal length. The newly developed Zoom Compose Assist function helps keeping track of the subject by quickly zooming out – handy when said subject moves out of frame.
In terms of ergonomics, the TZ95 has both, a viewfinder (0.21-inch 2,330k-dot LVF) and a touchscreen display (3.0-inch 1040k-dot). The display tilts up to 180 degrees for selfies or vlogging. Battery should last for approximately 380 shots per charge, USB charging is possible.
The 4K Photo mode records at 30 frames per second, out of which users can extract 8 megapixel JPEG photos. The built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity simplifies sharing content. GPS tagging is also available. Lastly, the TZ95 can be controlled remotely by a smartphone or tablet.
Both cameras are now ready for pre-orders.
What do you think of the newly announced LUMIX cameras? If you would like us to review any of the new Panasonic offerings let us know in the comments underneath the article.

The Atomos Shinobi is a new 5″ HDMI on-camera monitor with a 1000nits 1920×1080 HDR screen, known from the Ninja V. It is lightweight, runs on one Sony NP-F750 type battery and offers lots of features to help monitor the image and even sound levels. It is shipping now for $399 USD (and €399) plus tax.
The new Atomos Shinobi HDMI Monitor. Source: Atomos
In the industry, Atomos is mostly known for their HDMI and SDI on-camera video recorders, which happen to have great, bright HDR screens. The company is now launching their newest addition to their portfolio – a high brightness 1000nits 5″ 1920×1080 HDMI monitor, named Atomos Shinobi. The specs sound familiar? That’s right – it consists of the same HDR monitor as the popular on-camera recorder Atomos Ninja V.
Atomos Shinobi – Ninja V’s More Affordable Cousin
With its 200g (7 oz), the Shinobi is a lightweight device. For reference, the Ninja V weighs 320g (11.3 oz), not including the weight of the battery. The body of the monitor is made out of polycarbonate and should be durable. It has ¼” – 20 mounting points on the top and bottom, to allow flexible mounting. There is a headphone jack on the side, which allows users to monitor audio from most cameras – even if they don’t have a built-in audio headphone jack (So sound travels via HDMI). Clear on-screen audio level meters help monitoring audio, too.
As mentioned above, the Atomos Shinobi shares the same HDR 1920×1080 display and color processing found in the Atomos Ninja V recorder. The 1000nit brightness screen makes it easy to monitor the image clearly, even in daylight. It has a pixel density of 427 PPI (pixels per inch) and is factory calibrated for color accuracy. The screen can display 10+ stops of dynamic range, when being used with Log or HLG HDR outputs. Atomos’ color science gives a complete range of in-built gamma presets to match popular cameras when shooting Log or HLG.
There is one HDMI-in port and a headphone jack on the left side. Source: Atomos
The Shinobi can run for up to six hours on a single Sony NP-F750 type battery, which lots of filmmakers probably already have in their kit. A clear on-screen battery gauge shows the status of the battery, indicating when it is running low. The battery plate is positioned in the centre for better balance when mounted to mirrorless cameras. There is one HDMI-in port, which can accept signals up to DCI 4K (4096×2160) at 30fps, or HD video up to 60fps.
Shinobi Backside with battery plate. Source: Atomos
Atomos Shinobi uses the AtomOS 10 system with the same touch-screen interface as all the other Atomos products. It allows users to quickly magnify the image or engage peaking to check focus, pull up false color, a histogram, zebras or waveform to gauge exposure, or add guides or markers to aid composition. With one swipe, all of the menus go away for a totally clear view of the image and its framing.
The Atomos Shinobi looks identical on the top and bottom side. Source: Atomos
For Log image monitoring, it is possible to easily load compatible LUTs directly into Shinobi’s built-in memory via SD card. The internal memory can take up to eight LUT files. In addition, countless LUTs can be kept on the SD card and loaded when needed. The same SD card slot can also be used to install any future firmware updates.
Atomos’ new multi-tool called Analysis sounds (and looks) quite interesting to me. It simultaneously shows the image, plus waveform, histogram, vectorscope and audio-level meters. In addition, there are multiple options inside each of these tools. This gives the operator a complete picture of what is going on within the image, at any time.
The Analysis Tool. Sourse: Atomos
A major benefit of Shinobi is that it can be properly color-calibrated, using the free Atomos software and the X-rite i1Display Pro probe. All monitors’ colors drift over time and routine calibration ensures that the colors remain as accurate as they originally left the factory. Also, there is a flip-screen function which mirrors the image – a valuable feature for vloggers.
The Atomos Shinobi is available for purchase now. The price is set at $399 USD (€399 in Europe) plus local taxes. I can see this bright monitor appeal to lots of mirrorless filmmakers, who don’t like external recording, and maybe even to beginning focus pullers, as the brightness is quite impressive.
What do you think about Atomos’ latest offering? Do you use a monitor for your work or is the camera’s viewfinder more than enough? Would you choose the Atomos Shinobi over the Ninja V? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.

There are a couple of new, interesting deals for filmmakers available. We selected the best 10 offers of filmmaking gear from our partners’ online shops for this week – including a Panasonic GX85 set, a Panasonic 25mm lens, a tripod with fluid head, gimbals, an SSD and more.
Watch out – Two time-limited deals within this article expire tonight, February 13th, at 11:59 PM EST!
I went through the current deals on our partners’ websites and selected the top 10 offers currently available, which I think could be interesting for you. First, there are B&H offers listed for our readers based in North and South America and then, a couple of deals from our European partner CVP. By shopping at our affiliate partners’ stores you are supporting cinema5D through our buy links, as we get a small affiliate commission when a purchase is completed.
Now, let’s take a look at this week’s top 10 deals for filmmakers:
B&H: Panasonic GX85 with 12-32mm and 45-150mm Lenses and Accessories Kit – $500 Discount
The Panasonic GX85 features a 16MP micro four thirds sensor with 5-axis image stabilization (IBIS). The camera can record UHD 4K video at up to 30fps (100Mbps), as well as FHD video at up to 60fps (only 28Mbps though). It features an electronic viewfinder and a tilting LCD touchscreen. For this price, it might really be interesting for beginning filmmakers.
This discounted kit contains the camera body along with a Lumix G Vario 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, the Lumix G Vario 45-150mm f/4-5.6 O.I.S. lens, a SanDisk 32GB SDHC memory card, the Ruggard Hunter 35 DSLR bag, and a 37mm UV filter.
Buy link: Panasonic GX85 with 12-32mm and 45-150mm Lenses and Accessories Kit Was: $997.99 Now: $497.99 (Savings: $500.00)
B&H: E-Image EK60AAM Fluid Drag Video Head and Tripod – $70 Discount
According to its specs, this tripod offers lots of features for a small price tag. The maximum payload of the combo is 17.6 lb. The fluid drag tripod head has a sliding balance plate with a safety lock and spring-loaded counterbalance system. The tripod is a 75mm claw ball two-stage tripod with a mid-level spreader and a height range of 31 to 63″. It also offers removable anti-slip pads/spike covers and comes with a soft travel case.
Watch out – This deal expires tonight, February 13th, at 11:59 PM EST!
Buy link: E-Image EK60AAM Fluid Drag Video Head and Tripod Was: $219.00 Now: $149.00 (Savings: $70.00)
B&H: Case Logic CPL-106 Medium Shoulder Bag – $15 Discount
There is a very interesting 50% discount on this bag from Case Logic. It can hold a camera body and 2-3 lenses or flash. There is an interior zip pocket, a memory card pocket with a flap, padded interior dividers, an exterior accessory pocket and two stretchable side mesh pockets. The bag also features a padded top handle, a removable shoulder strap and a built-in rain cover.
Watch out – This deal expires tonight, February 13th, at 11:59 PM EST!
Buy link: Case Logic CPL-106 Medium Shoulder Bag Was: $29.95 Now: $14.95 (Savings: $15.00)
B&H: Axler Handheld Gimbal for Mirrorless Cameras – $400 Discount
This 3-axis motorized gimbal stabilizer from Axler supports loads up to 1.9 lb, so it could be used for lighter setups. It features a quick release plate and offset adapter, and can be used in inverted mode for low-angle shooting. Furthermore, there is a 5V USB output, which you can use for the included LED light. The gimbal is powered by three 18650 batteries, which provide 2 to 3 hours runtime.
Buy link: Axler Handheld Gimbal for Mirrorless Cameras Was: $599.00 Now: $199.00 (Savings: $400.00)
B&H: Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 ASPH Lens – $100 Discount
This fast prime lens for micro four thirds systems has 50mm focal length (35mm equivalent) and an aperture range of f/1.7 to f/22. The optical elements include two aspherical elements and nano surface coating. There is a rounded 7-blade diaphragm and 46mm front filter thread. This lens could nicely complement the first deal in this article – the Panasonic GX85. The reviews on B&H are positive, so image quality should be pretty good too (given the price).
Buy link: Panasonic Lumix G 25mm f/1.7 ASPH Lens Was: $247.99 Now: $147.99 (Savings: $100.00)
B&H: Samsung 500GB T5 Portable SSD – $30 Discount
This Samsung 500GB SSD might be a perfect choice if you are looking for a fast recording medium for the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K or just a fast external drive for editing. It offers USB 3.1 type-C and type-A connections and up to 540 MB/s data transfer rate. The USB type-C & USB type-A cables are included in the package. The drive offers AES 256-bit hardware encryption, as well.
Buy link: Samsung 500GB T5 Portable SSD Was: $127.99 Now: $97.99 (Savings: $30.00)
B&H: Core SWX NPF-970 6600mah L-Series Battery Kit – $21 Discount
Almost every filmmaker is using L-series batteries every now and then. There are countless devices using this standard, especially in the lighting area. This set of a TL-F970 battery (7.2V Li-ion, 6600mAh) and the BC-F970 charger with an LED indicator might come handy. The battery can also be used for Sony camcorders.
Buy link: Core SWX NPF-970 6600mah L-Series Battery Kit Was: $80.00 Now: $59.00 (Savings: $21.00)
B&H: Lowepro DroneGuard CS 400 – $100 Discount
This rugged backpack can hold the DJI Phantom/3DR Solo or a similar drone. There is also place for a transmitter, a set of propellers, a flight battery and charger, as well as other accessories. It can be used as a backpack or hand-carried.
Buy link: Lowepro DroneGuard CS 400 Was: $149.95 Now: $49.95 (Savings: $100.00)
CVP: Gudsen MOZA Air 2 – Free iFocus Motor Unit
The Gudsen MOZA Air 2 is a motorized gimbal for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras and pocket cinema cameras weighing up to 9 lb (4.2kg). It is powered with four high-rate Li-ion 18650 replaceable batteries, which give the MOZA Air 2 a maximum runtime of 16 hours. CVP now offers a free iFocus motor unit for easy wireless focus pulling. Valid with every MOZA Air 2 purchase (until the end of February).
Buy link: Gudsen MOZA Air 2 €531.48 (Savings: free iFocus motor unit)
CVP: Manfrotto Anti-Rotation Arm – over €6 Discount
This 15cm (5.9″) friction arm with anti-rotation attachments accepts interchangeable 1/4″ attachments – with 3/8″ adapter. It also includes a hex key for changing adapters. The anti-rotation system is compatible with Manfrotto products including the 055 series, 190 series, and 386B-1 nano clamp. The unique shape of the anti-rotation adapter allows the equipment to be securely interlocked, so the arm will not rotate anymore. It safely accepts payloads of up to 3kg.
Buy link: Manfrotto Anti-Rotation Arm Was: €75.11 Now: €68.46 (Savings: €6.65)
What do you think of this week’s selection? Share with us if you know and like any of these products.

FUJIFILM has just released the new firmware update version 2.1 for their FUJIFILM X-T3 mirrorless camera. It enables recording video files bigger than 4GB, so long takes will no longer be chopped into multiple files. The free firmware update is available now. There is currently a time-limited discount on this great camera, too.
The FUJIFILM X-T3 is currently one of the best mirrorless cameras, when it comes to the overall needs of filmmakers. My colleague, Johnnie, has tested the camera in the field back in September 2018 – make sure to check out the review in case you missed it. By the way, all of our videos from IBC 2018 and Photokina 2018 were filmed with the FUJIFILM X-T3.
In fact, the camera is so good that it became the cinema5D camera of the year 2018. It is good to see, however, that even despite having a good product, FUJIFILM still tries to improve its performance and fix minor issues via firmware updates.
The X-T3 already got one firmware update back in December 2018. You can check our article about the firmware 2.0 improvements here.
Initially, FUJIFILM planned to include the “4GB file size limit fix” already in firmware 2.0, but later they announced that it will come out as a separate update. Now it is here, with version 2.1.
The firmware update 2.1 log states exactly:
Movie files are no longer split when the file reaches 4GB file size. The file is recorded as one file providing an SD memory card greater than 32GB is used (excludes 32GB). By using SD memory cards less than or equal to 32GB, movie recording will continue without interruption when the file size reaches 4GB, however subsequent footage will be recorded to a separate file.
So in other words – the new “4GB file size limit fix” only applies to SDXC cards. For SD and SDHC cards, the 4GB limit still applies. In order to copy files over 4GB in size, FUJIFILM advices users to use a card reader (and not Image Capture or other software). The firmware update can be downloaded free of charge here.
There is a time-limited discount (up to $201) on the FUJIFILM X-T3 in our partner’s online shop. It comes in a set with a SDHC card and a camera bag. Make sure to check it out, the offer ends on February 9th. Here are the links to the FUJIFILM X-T3 camera body and the FUJIFILM X-T3 with 18-55mm Lens.
Our full review and sample footage of the FUJIFILM X-T3 can be found here
Do you film with the FUJIFILM X-T3? How do you like it? What do you think of the new firmware update 2.1? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.

There are a couple of new, interesting deals for filmmakers available. We selected the best 10 offers of filmmaking gear from our partners’ online shops for this week – including the Sony a7R II, the GoPro HERO7, Atomos and SmallHD monitors, lenses, a tripod, gimbals and more.
I went through the current deals on our partners’ websites and selected the top 10 offers currently available, which I think could be interesting for you. First, there are B&H offers listed for our readers based in North and South America and then a couple of deals from our European partner CVP. By shopping at our affiliate partners’ stores you are supporting cinema5D through our buy links, as we get a small affiliate commission when a purchase is completed.
Now, let’s take a look at this week’s top 10 deals for filmmakers:
B&H: Sony a7R II Camera Kit – Over $240 Discount
This mirrorless camera with its 42MP full-frame sensor is clearly aimed at pro photographers. It can also record decent video, though (take a look at our review of the camera). The Sony a7R II features internal UHD 4K video in 24/25 or 30 fps with S-log2 gamma color profile, 5-axis sensor stabilization, OLED EVF and a tilting LCD monitor. ISO can be ramped all the way up to 102,400.
This discounted kit features the camera body along with a SanDisk 64GB SDXC memory card and a Think Tank shoulder bag. There are other kits available too.
Buy link: Sony a7R II Camera Kit Was: $2,041.42 Now: $1,798.00 (Savings: $243.42)
B&H: GoPro HERO7 Black – $50 Discount
The new GoPro action camera was introduced during fall 2018, featuring various resolutions and frame rates – 4K60/50, 2.7K120/100 & 1080p240/200 and very capable video stabilization, called HyperSmooth. Take a look at our hands-on test. The HERO7 is waterproof up to 33′ without a housing and can be controlled via touchscreen, button or smartphone.
Buy link: GoPro HERO7 Black Was: $399.00 Now: $349.00 (Savings: $50.00)
B&H: Zhiyun-Tech Crane-2 Gimbal – $200 Discount
The Zhiyun-Tech Crane is a 3-axis one-handed gimbal for mirrorless & DSLR cameras up to 7lb. It features electronic follow focus control (for selected Canon cameras only) and a separate follow focus motor can also be purchased. The gimbal has a runtime of 12-18 hours with included batteries.
Buy link: Zhiyun-Tech Crane-2 Gimbal Was: $749.00 Now: $549.00 (Savings: $200.00)
B&H: Olympus M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO Lens – $200 Discount
This lens is one of the best telephoto lenses for micro four thirds (MFT) systems. It has a full-frame equivalent of 80-300mm and aperture range from f/2.8 to f/22. There is a programmable L-Fn function button (will only work with selected cameras) and the lens features a weather-resistant construction.
Buy link: Olympus M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO Lens Was: $1,499.00 Now: $1,299.00 (Savings: $200.00)
B&H: Rokinon 35mm f/1.4 AS UMC Lens for Canon EF – $140 Discount
There is an interesting discount on this manual EF mount prime lens from Rokinon. It even covers full-frame sensors and has an aperture range of f/1.4 to f/22. The lens features one aspherical and two HR elements.
Buy link: Rokinon 35mm f/1.4 AS UMC Lens for Canon EF Was: $499.00 Now: $359.00 (Savings: $140.00)
B&H: Atomos SUMO19M 19″ HDR/High-Brightness Monitor – $500 Discount
The Atomos SUMO19M is 1920 x 1080 1200 cd/m² (nits) bright touchscreen display with 10-Bit FRC processing. There are HDMI 2.0 and 12G-SDI inputs/outputs. It can import LUTs from master caddy media and has a high-bright mode for REC. 709 viewing. It lacks the recorder functionality of its more expensive brother SUMO19, which is also discounted, by the way.
Buy link: Atomos SUMO19M 19″ HDR/High-Brightness Monitor Was: $1,995.00 Now: $1,495.00 (Savings: $500.00)
B&H: SmallHD 503 UltraBright Director’s Kit – $1,100 Discount
This massively discounted director’s kit is based on the SmallHD 503 UltraBright monitor with a 5″ 1920 x 1080 display, SDI and HDMI inputs and 2200 cd/m² (nits) brightness. It further includes a 503 cage and hood, a protective neoprene sleeve, a dual L-series battery plate, monitor accessory handles and a neck strap, ultra-matte screen protectors, BNC cables, a LEMO power lead cable, and a cleaning cloth.
Buy link: SmallHD 503 UltraBright Director’s Kit Was: $2,799.00 Now: $1,699.00 (Savings: $1,100.00)
B&H: Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Head & 755XB Tripod Set – Over $166 Discount
This set from Manfrotto could be suitable for beginner filmmakers with a small camera and tight budget. It features the flat base MVH500AH fluid head with 11lb maximum payload, -70° / +90° tilt & 360° pan and the 500PLONG camera plate. The tripod features 2-stage aluminum legs with flip-lever lock clamps, adjustable and removable center-column and can be extended up to 65″ max height (with center-column raised). The padded, zippered bag is included in the set.
Buy link: Manfrotto MVH500AH Fluid Head & 755XB Tripod Set Was: $464.88 Now: $298.00 (Savings: $166.88)
CVP: Filmpower Nebula 4300 Gimbal – over €233 Discount
Filmpower claims that their Nebula 4300 gimbal offers 5-axis stabilization – meaning it can compensate the horizontal and vertical bounces caused by a filmmaker’s steps. It features spring mechanisms on both arms of the dual handle. Maximum payload of the gimbal is 3.2kg, so it should be able to accommodate most mirrorless and DSLR systems.
Buy link: Filmpower Nebula 4300 Gimbal Was: €755.30 Now: €522.10 (Savings: €233.21)
CVP: Zacuto EVA1 Gratical HD Recoil Pro – over €698 Discount
As an EVA1 owner, I am aware of the poor quality of the supplied LCD display when it comes to accurate image monitoring. Zacuto is one of the few companies to offer third-party solutions for situations like this. This set will equip the EVA1 with the Zacuto Gratical HD electronic viewfinder. It also includes a VCT shoulder baseplate with a grip extension rod, and the EVA1 Top plate with built-in Z-rail, so you can add the Zacuto top handle or recoil handle. The complete set consists of: 1x VCT Pro baseplate, 1x EVA1 top plate, 1x top handle, 1x 15mm rod lock, 1x Z-Grip trigger, 1x Axis mini mount, 1x Gratical HD.
Buy link: Zacuto EVA1 Gratical HD Recoil Pro Was: €2,728.17 Now: €2,029.77 (Savings: €698.40)
What do you think of this week’s selection? Share with us if you know and like any of these products.

Red Giant Universe 3.0 was released recently. It boasts a new dockable Dashboard that makes it simple to explore and apply effects and presets in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects. It also brings five new text generation effects, presets for every tool, and the option to save customized presets.
Red Giant is a software company that creates tools for filmmakers, editors, VFX artists and motion designers. Over the last decade, their products (like Magic Bullet, Trapcode, Universe and PluralEyes) have become the standard in film and broadcast post-production. It is almost five years since they launched the first (public beta) version of Universe. Now, the Universe 3.0 was announced. Red Giant defines it simply as “video transition and effects plugins for editors and motion graphics artists”. What is new in version 3.0?
Red Giant Universe 3.0
The new dockable Universe Dashboard (in Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects) keeps all the tools easily accessible and makes it simple to explore and apply Universe’s entire library of effects and presets. Users can now save effects as favorites and easily find recently used effects and transitions. A modified version of the Dashboard is also available for other applications outside of Adobe Creative Cloud.
Red Giant Universe 3.0 newly features five new customizable text generation effects, including a multitude of presets to help users get started:
Type Cast enables users to easily animate text properties like color, opacity, size, position and rotation – by the word or character.
Type On allows users to quickly create computer terminal-style type reveals. It includes many options for customization and randomization.
Screen Text enables filling the screen with scrolling code to create the look of an old-school or modern computer terminal.
Hacker Text lets users easily create computer “hacker-style” scrambled text animations. It can simulate encrypting or decrypting text with many options for randomization and look.
Text Tile can generate multiple columns full of random data for use in motion graphics and computer terminal effects. Displayed information can be static or animated.
At this point, it is worth mentioning that Red Giant offers a lot of tutorials for many different Universe tools in form of YouTube videos. You can check them here:
Another new feature of Red Giant Universe 3.0 is presets. In the new version, every tool comes with presets that can be explored via the new Dashboard. In addition, there now is a “Save Preset” button for every Universe effect, which lets users save presets to the Dashboard (Adobe Creative Cloud apps) or the preset browser (non-Adobe Creative Cloud apps), depending on which application is being used.
Red Giant Universe 3.0 is available for download now via this link. The price for the full license is $199 annually or $30 monthly. The Academic annual license costs $99. When it comes to compatibility, Universe 3.0 runs on Windows and OS X, and includes over 75 tools that run in: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Apple Final Cut Pro X, Avid Media Composer, DaVinci Resolve, Apple Motion, Magix Vegas, Hitfilm Pro.
What do you think of the Red Giant Universe 3.0 Update? Have you been a Universe user? Let us know in the comments underneath the article.